North Bend: Archaeological Site Formation and the Hough Type at Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary

Abstract

This thesis examines the archaeological site formation processes which created North Bend, a historically significant vessel abandoned within Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary. The research centers around understanding the disintegration process for North Bend and identifies factors influencing its current preservation and future site formation. The research draws upon Donald Shomette's extensive archaeological work (1986-1997) and further field studies by East Carolina University, contributing to a deeper understanding of MPNMS's historical and environmental significance. The theoretical framework is based on the concepts of archaeological site formation developed by Michael B. Schiffer (1976, 1987) and Keith Muckelroy (1976a, 1978a) analyzing cultural and non-cultural processes affecting maritime sites. This study utilized various methodologies including digital reconstruction, archaeological field methods, resistograph analysis for wood density, to gain comprehensive insights into the disintegration and preservation of North Bend and similar vessels. Significantly, this thesis aligns with the strategic objectives of Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary, addressing gaps in the understanding of Hough type vessels and contributing to their preservation management. It navigates through potential limitations like data collection constraints, historical record gaps, and site accessibility, and underscores the importance of multi-layered research approaches in maritime archaeology. This study stands to inform future conservation strategies for maritime archaeological sites, specifically those within Mallows Bay-Potomac River National Marine Sanctuary.